Our history
Part of the neighborhood since 1928.
Read about our early years, our firehouse and the volunteers who served before us.
Historical photograph courtesy of Ed Wilmarth.
West Hamilton Beach · Since 1928
Your neighbors.
Your volunteer
fire department.
We’re the West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Corps. We volunteer our time to provide fire and ambulance service to our community.
Serving West Hamilton Beach since 1928. All volunteer.
Get to know West Hamilton Beach
About our department
Learn about our history, see our apparatus and find out how to volunteer or support our work.
Our apparatus
Our Firematic BRAT 4×4
See photos and specifications for our BRAT, engines, ambulances and rescue boats.
Apparatus photograph courtesy of Firematic.
Around the firehouse
Latest from WHB
News, photos and updates from our Facebook page. Open a post on Facebook to read more.
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West Hamilton Beach Fire Dept.
(opens in a new tab)WHBFD provides the areas of Howard Beach, Rockwood Park, Hamilton Beach, Jamaica Bay, Ramblersville and The Belt Parkway with emergency care since 1928
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department announces the passing of our past member, Firefighter/EMT Johnny Medina.
Johnny will be remembered for his warm smile, his great sense of humor, and his willingness to go above and beyond to help anyone in need. His dedication to helping others and his positive spirit left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him.
As we mourn the loss of a valued member of our department and our community, we extend our deepest condolences to Johnny’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
We ask everyone to please keep the Medina family in your thoughts and prayers as we come together to honor Johnny’s memory and the impact he made on the lives of so many.
Rest in peace, Johnny. Thank you for your service, your friendship, and your dedication to helping others. You will never be forgotten. We’ll take it from here brother 🖤🚒
76 CommentsComment on Facebook
🚒🎉 CELEBRATING 98 YEARS OF SERVICE, PRIDE & DEDICATION! 🎉🚒
Today, October 19, 2026, the West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department proudly celebrates its 98th Anniversary! ❤️💛
Since October 19, 1928, our dedicated volunteers have answered the call, stood ready in times of need, and worked tirelessly to help keep our neighbors, families, and community safe in Howard Beach, Queens.
Our proud history is built on courage, sacrifice, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to those we serve.
As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we honor the generations of firefighters who came before us, thank our current members for their continued dedication, and extend our heartfelt appreciation to the residents of Howard Beach for their trust and support throughout the years.
98 YEARS OF HISTORY. A LEGACY OF SERVICE. A FUTURE OF DEDICATION. 💪🚒
As we look ahead, we remain committed to carrying on our proud tradition of volunteer service and protecting the community we are honored to call home. Here’s to the next chapter and many more years of serving Howard Beach!
From our firehouse family to yours, thank you, Howard Beach, for being part of our history, our tradition, and our future. ❤️💛
🔥 WEST HAMILTON BEACH VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT 🔥
🎉 HAPPY 98TH ANNIVERSARY! 🎉
98 Years of Proud Service — And Counting! 🚒❤️💛
#WestHamiltonBeachVFD #HowardBeach #QueensNY #98thAnniversary #98YearsOfService
12 CommentsComment on Facebook
🚒🔥 FIRE SAFETY STARTS AT HOME! 🏠❤️
The West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department & Roger Gendron was proud to partner with NYC Emergency Management for our Fire Safety Day of Action! 🤝
Thank you to everyone who came out to learn how to keep themselves, their families, and our community safe. Residents received a comprehensive fire safety presentation and had the opportunity to receive a FREE smoke detector or fire extinguisher, if needed. 🧯🚨
Remember to take 5 minutes to review these important fire safety tips:
🔌 1. Plug appliances directly into wall outlets.
🍳 2. Never leave cooking unattended.
🚨 3. Install working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every floor and near sleeping areas.
🏃 4. Create and practice a home escape plan.
🔋 5. Charge and store lithium-ion batteries safely, and dispose of them properly.
A few minutes of preparation can save lives! Let’s continue working together to build a safer, stronger Hamilton Beach / Howard Beach community. ❤️
Stay alert. Stay prepared. Stay safe!
#HamiltonBeach #WestHamiltonBeach #FireSafety #CommunitySafety #FirePrevention
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